IVL is a technology derived from renal lithotripsy (a technique used to split kidney stones), in which numerous transmitters positioned on a conventional balloon catheter provide pulsatile energy to pulverise the calcified plaque while minimising vessel injury.
To dissolve the calcium in the plaque, IVL technology sends pulsatile sound pressure waves into the cardiac arteries. These waves interact with high-density calcium selectively and break it down without causing injury to cardiac tissue.
IVL is used to treat very difficult calcium-rich obstructions. The operation is almost immediately effective, and it is followed by coronary angioplasty and stenting. This is a different procedure than rotational atherectomy.
To avoid reblockage, IVL is usually followed with a stent placement.
The IVL treatment is generally considered safe because the device only breaks the calcified plaques and does not harm good cardiac tissue. It is a less risky surgery than rotational athetrectomy. Depending on the extent of the blockage in your heart arteries, your cardiologist will choose which operation is best for you.
This technique is included in the coronary angioplasty/stenting procedure; therefore it does not extend the hospital stay beyond the typical 24-28 hours.
